Budget Euro Trip: Freiburg Im Breisgau

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Photo of Budget Euro Trip: Freiburg Im Breisgau 1/5 by Sudeep
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Photo of Budget Euro Trip: Freiburg Im Breisgau 3/5 by Sudeep
Photo of Budget Euro Trip: Freiburg Im Breisgau 4/5 by Sudeep
Photo of Budget Euro Trip: Freiburg Im Breisgau 5/5 by Sudeep

We started our day by picking up our hired car and heading on a 6 hour drive from Brussels to Freiburg Im Breisgau in Germany. During this long drive we crossed Luxembourg, France before entering Germany.

A lot of people when head towards the Black Forest reason first place which they prefer is Baden Baden which is known for its Hot baths. But Freiburg holds its own against the popular neighbour. Set in the foothills of the Black Forest, Freiburg Im Breisgau is a buzzing University town filled with scenic beauty, relatively warm and sunny climate. It straddles the Dreisam river, on the foothills of the Schlossberg. The location of this town is unmatched: right at the foot of the Black Forest, in the midst of the “Dreiländereck” (Border Triangle) where Germany, France and Switzerland touch.

Freiburg has a lot to offer-no matter whether you are interested in a stroll in the historic old town to learn about the culture and history of the city or want to head for a trek in the Black Forest. By the time we reached it was noon and was raining, so we decided to drop the trekking plans and explore the city itself. One can cool down their tired feet in one of the numerous Bächle (little waterways) that are unique to Germany. They meander through the Old Town and pass charming cafés and outdoor restaurants. The various streets integrates modern and old architecture into a charming living environment where many buildings still retain their old façades. Here you can sit amongst locals and students, enjoy the regional cuisine and experience the relaxed atmosphere.

Things to See

Freiburg Minister– Every visitor who comes to Freiburg heads straight to the cathedral as soon as he catches a glimpse of the open-worked pyramids of the slender tower over the rooftops of the old town. This is one of the most beautiful tower in Christian architecture. While many churches from the middle ages were completed only in following centuries, the tower, which is 116 meters high, was already completed by 1330. The tower has 16 bells, the oldest being theHosanna bell from 1258, which weighs 3,290 kg.

Old & New Town Hall- It was assembled from 1557 – 1559 from many old houses. The façade was originally completely painted. Since 2007 tourist information centre can be found in this building. While the new town hall was only created from 1896 to 1901 due to modification of a semi-detached house from the Renaissance.

City Gates– Due to the oldest crossing of the river Dreisam and the Oberlinden road junction, the Obertor or the Schwabentor gates were of particular importance which was also demonstrated with the weir system.

Merchant’s Hall– The historic “Kaufhaus” (Merchant’s Hall) is a symbol of the importance of trade in medieval Freiburg. This was the centre of trade at that time.

Münsterplatz– Freiburg’s colorful market takes place at the “Münsterplatz” or the Cathedral Square.  The square is surrounded by architectural gems from Romanesque through Baroque.

Freiburg is one of Germany’s greenest and warmest cities and has a large number of biking and walking tracks. By car, the Black Forest, Alsace or Switzerland are only one hour away.

This cosmo town is also the gateway to the Black Forest. Its peaks, valleys and lakes, churches and monasteries are all within easy reach of the city. One can choose their trails and head on into the forest. There are some great views of the town from the forest.

Eat- The Alstadt is full of cafes, taverns, brewpubs, restaurants etc with lots of affordable options

Drink- Since the town is buzzing with student population, there are lots of places where one can grab a drink or two. I suggest to visit Hausbrauerei Feierling which is a stream-side beergarden where one can grab the domestic brew for an affordable cost.

Getting Around- Freiburg shares it airport with Basel in Switzerland. It is easily accessible by train & roadways. Inside Freiburg, one can walk around the whole town very easily or take a bicycle and cycle their way around the town.

Amount Spent: Approximately 30 Euros for 1 day including stay, food and drinks.

I really wish we had a bit more time to explore the city as it was certainly quite charming. As a friend of mine Pooja Ravikumar said it-

It is undoubtedly one of the most green cities in Germany!! Even the outskirts of Freiburg, like Freiamt are more than just beautiful just to add among the locals, one commonly hears that if you accidentally step in the Bächle (Bach in German meaning stream) you marry a Freiburger. So do watch your step

Next StopMunich

PS– This is a part of our 9 city road trip across Belgium, Netherlands & Germany visiting Brussels, Freiburg, Munich, Rothenberg ob der Tauber, Dresden, Berlin, Amsterdam, Bruges & Ghent.

This travelogue was first published by Chasing The Experience .